12 End of Summer Adventures in Franklin and Williamson County
Summer may be winding down, but there’s still plenty of time to enjoy the warm weather, long days, and laid-back pace before fall routines take over. Franklin and Williamson County offer countless ways to make the most of the season’s final stretch, from watching sunsets over vineyards and taking a last swim at the pool to exploring farmers markets, historic sites, and public art. Whether you want to spend a day on the water, enjoy a picnic in one of the county’s newer parks, dine outdoors, or simply slow down and savor the moment, these ideas will help you wrap up summer on a high note.
1. Savor the Last Scoop
Treat yourself to a final round of summer sweets. Head to Kilwins in downtown Franklin for ice cream and fudge or Jeni’s Ice Creams, with locations in The Factory at Franklin and McEwen Northside, for a taste of some of the most delicious ice cream around.
Looking for something a little different? The Franklin Milkshake Bar at Fork of the South in The Factory serves milkshakes that make for a perfect end-of-summer treat.
Learn more about the shop behind those shakes: Fork of the South: Much More Than a General Store in Franklin, TN
2. One Last Dip
Before summer ends, make time for a visit to one of the Williamson County Parks & Recreation (WCPR) outdoor pools or splash parks.
At the Franklin Recreation Complex, the Splash Park is open daily through September 21st, and the outdoor pool is open through August 31st on weekends only. The outdoor pools at the Fairview Recreation Complex, the Longview Recreation Center in Spring Hill, and the Recreation Complex at Nolensville remain open on weekends through August 31st.
The pool at the Indoor Sports Complex at Brentwood is closed through September 12th for maintenance, but the Splash Park is open daily through September 21st.
Weather permitting, all WCPR’s outdoor pools are open on Labor Day, September 1st, from 9 am to 3 pm, offering one last chance to enjoy the water before the season ends.
Looking for other places to cool down? Find your perfect swimming spot: Dive In! Top Places for Swimming in Franklin, Williamson County, and Nashville, TN
3. Watch the Sun Go Down
Soak up those last golden hours with a sunset picnic or walk. The Park at Harlinsdale Farm and Pinkerton Park both offer wide-open skies and relaxing green space for evening gatherings. For a more elevated view, head to Timberland Park and follow the Overlook Trail for a quiet bench with a scenic view.
Arrington Vineyards, located just a short drive from Franklin, provides a picturesque hillside setting where you can enjoy a glass of wine while watching the sun dip below the rolling hills.
For another great place to catch golden hour, check out: Franklin Celebrates the Grand Opening of Bicentennial Park
4. Go Boating, Kayaking, or Tubing
The water is still warm enough for one more float trip or paddle. Rent kayaks or paddleboards at Paddle Dog in Westhaven to explore Westhaven Lake.
For Harpeth River access, Franklin maintains several public canoe and kayak entry points, great for launching canoes, enjoying a float, or dipping your toes. Make your way to the water at Pinkerton Park, Eastern Flank Battlefield Park, The Park at Harlinsdale Farm, or the Franklin Recreation Complex.
For tips and more outdoor adventures, see: Embrace Summer: Where to Hike, Boat, Camp, Fish, and More Near Franklin, Tennessee
5. Shop Local at Summer Farmers Markets
August is peak season at farmers markets across Williamson County, with tables overflowing with tomatoes, melons, sweet corn, squash, herbs, and fresh-cut flowers. It’s also your last chance to enjoy some seasonal specialties before fall crops take over.
Across the county, local markets showcase farm-fresh eggs, pasture-raised meats, sourdough bread, small-batch pickles, jams, and handmade goods from regional artisans.
Discover local flavor and handmade goods: Fresh Produce, Artisan Crafts, and Community Spirit at Franklin and Williamson County Farmers Markets
6. Dine Outdoors While You Still Can
Franklin is full of restaurants with patios perfect for enjoying the last stretch of summer. Downtown favorites like Culaccino, Puckett’s, and 55 South offer outdoor seating, great for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Frothy Monkey has a covered patio for coffee or cocktails, and McCreary’s Irish Pub and Eatery has outdoor seating right on Main Street, perfect for people watching.
If you are in the Westhaven area, Scout’s Pub and Coal Town Public House both offer inviting patios that remain lively through late summer.
Whether it’s a casual weekday bite or a weekend dinner out, end-of-summer dining is best enjoyed with a little sunshine or starlight.
Find your perfect patio at The Factory: Outdoor Dining at The Factory at Franklin: Where to Eat Al Fresco
7. Take a Break Before School is in Full Swing
School may have started, but there’s still time to sneak in a mini-vacation or local day trip. Unwind with a stay at Southall Farm & Inn, a luxury countryside resort set across 325 lush acres, offering everything from spa treatments to farm-to-table dinners. Prefer something downtown? The Harpeth Hotel offers comfort and convenience, placing you within easy reach of boutique shops, charming cafés, and historic sights. Leiper’s Fork also makes a lovely retreat, with charming local cottages and artistic vibes just minutes from Franklin.
Find inspiration for your local escape: Stay Awhile: Your Guide to a Spring Break Staycation in Williamson County
8. Have a Picnic in a New Spot
Skip the routine and spend an afternoon at one of Williamson County’s newer parks. Peacock Hill Nature Park, which opened to the public in March 2024, offers wooded trails, scenic overlooks, and quiet picnic spots in nearby College Grove. Bicentennial Park in downtown Franklin, unveiled in June 2025, features a covered pavilion, shaded picnic areas, and a public plaza that connects to Franklin’s trail system. Both parks provide fresh spaces to explore, relax, and enjoy a meal outdoors.
Pick up sandwiches from Franklin Mercantile Deli or baked goods from Merridee’s Breadbasket before you head out, and enjoy a leisurely meal surrounded by nature.
Plan your outing with this helpful guide: Perfect Picnic in Franklin: Top Spots, Provisions, and Activities in Williamson County
9. Go on a Mural or Public Art Walk
Spend a Saturday morning exploring Franklin’s growing collection of murals and public art installations. McEwen Northside features a few new photo spots, while The Park at Harlinsdale Farm recently added permanent public art panels on the Pedestrian Bridge, celebrating the area’s equestrian history and natural beauty. Make a map or itinerary and stop for snacks along the way!
See where to snap the best shots: Franklin’s Most Instagrammable Locations
10. Step Back in Time
Before summer ends, take time to explore Franklin’s wealth of historic sites. Tour Carnton, a former Civil War field hospital, and learn about the Battle of Franklin through its preserved home, gardens, and museum. Visit Carter House, another key site from the battle, to hear stories from those who lived through it. In nearby Spring Hill, Rippa Villa offers guided tours that share its Civil War history, antebellum architecture, and the story of the Battle of Spring Hill. All three sites are managed by Battle of Franklin Trust, which offers combined ticket options and special programming throughout the year.
Learn more about historical Williamson County: Visit Franklin’s Treasures: Museums and Historical Points of Interest in Williamson County, Tennessee
11. Have a Backyard Cookout
Before the routines of fall take over, gather friends or family for a backyard cookout. Fill your basket with fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan condiments at a local farmers market. For premium meats, visit butcher shops like The Butcher Block in Franklin or New York Butcher Shoppe in Brentwood. Round out your menu with cheeses from Greys Fine Cheeses in The Factory and bread or pastries from Perenn Bakery in downtown Franklin.
It’s a simple, low-pressure way to slow down and savor the season before fall calendars fill up.
Get tips, resources, and more for a local cookout: In Good Company: Host the Perfect Summer Cookout in Williamson County, Tennessee
12. Explore The Factory at Franklin
The Factory at Franklin is a great all-in-one destination to wrap up summer, whether you’re looking for food, shopping, entertainment, or just a place to wander indoors on a hot day. Housed in a historic 1929 building, The Factory blends local history with modern experiences and continues to evolve, with new shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Enjoy a meal al fresco at one of the Factory’s many outdoor dining spots, then take your time browsing shops like Fork of the South before heading over to the Carousel of Dreams, a handcrafted attraction designed by carousel artist Ken Means.
If you visit on a Wednesday, stop by the Factory at Franklin Farmers Market to shop for local produce and handmade goods.
Whether you go for a meal, to shop, or just to see what’s new, The Factory offers an easy way to spend a few hours indoors while still making the most of summer’s slower pace.
Plan your visit: Discover the Charms of the Factory at Franklin
Make the Most of the Season in Franklin and Williamson County
Sometimes the best way to savor summer is to do nothing at all. Sleep in, read on the porch, make a big breakfast, or spend an afternoon in a hammock with something cold to drink. But if you’re ready to get out and about, Franklin and Williamson County offer plenty of ways to make the season’s final stretch special. From scenic parks and historic sites to lively markets and relaxing patios, the opportunities to enjoy these closing weeks of summer are all around.
